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Against Impossible Odds: Vanessa Rich Bennett’s Extraordinary Journey

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What happens when every medical prediction points in one direction, yet you choose to hold on to hope? For Vanessa Rich Bennett, that question became deeply personal after doctors advised that her pregnancy was unlikely to continue following serious complications at just 14 weeks. Speaking on Springboard Hangout with host Comfort Ocran, she reflected on a journey that tested her faith, challenged medical expectations, and ultimately reshaped her purpose. Rather than allowing her experience to remain a private family story, Madam Bennett now uses it to encourage families facing difficult pregnancies to remain informed, ask questions, work closely with healthcare professionals, and refuse to lose hope too quickly. Her daughter, Heavenly, was eventually born at just 26 weeks, weighing only 0.9 kilograms and facing several serious health complications. Today, however, Heavenly is thriving, a reality Madam Bennett describes as evidence that difficult beginnings do not always determine the final outcome. Throughout the conversation, Madam Bennett stressed that her journey was not about ignoring medical advice. Instead, she said it taught her the importance of understanding every diagnosis, asking questions, researching available treatment options, and partnering with doctors throughout the process. She also described faith as the foundation that carried her family through months of uncertainty. “Everything about my story is faith,” she said, explaining that every challenge she has experienced has prepared her to speak from lived experience and encourage others walking similar paths. Today, Madam Bennett shares her experience through speaking engagements and her book, 27 Weeks of Courage, hoping it reminds others that even when circumstances appear impossible, courage, knowledge, and hope still have a place. Her appearance on Springboard Hangout served as more than a personal testimony. It was a reminder that behind many stories of survival are difficult decisions, resilient families, dedicated healthcare professionals, and the determination to keep believing when the odds appear stacked against you. Watch the full conversation here: https://www.youtube.com/live/5ft_c0bZMGk?si=9u5m_K5R2Lrqs4bG About Springboard Hangout Springboard Hangout is a funducative, youth-centred show hosted by Comfort Ocran. It features inspiring stories, practical skills, and real-life experiences aimed at educating, entertaining, and equipping the next generation. The programme airs every Saturday at 4:00 PM on Joy Prime TV and on the Springboard Channel on Facebook and YouTube. Marketing & Communications Springboard Road Show Foundation

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Integrity Opens Doors You Cannot Yet See, Angela Berko Tells Young People

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Young people should treat every opportunity they receive with integrity because today’s responsibilities could become the foundation for tomorrow’s leadership, Ghanaian healthcare entrepreneur Angela Berko has advised. Speaking on Springboard Hangout with host Comfort Ocran, the Co-Founder and Director of McAngel Home Visiting Nurses in the United States said many people fail to recognize that the habits they build while working for others often prepare them for opportunities they have not yet imagined. Drawing from her own journey, the Registered Nurse recalled how, as a young employee at Legacy and Legacy, she was entrusted with significant responsibilities, including managing company finances and accounting for thousands of books sold during nationwide programmes. At the time, she simply focused on carrying out her duties faithfully, without realizing the experience was preparing her to one day lead her own healthcare organization. “It started there at that time. I did not know it, but it started there,” she said, explaining that the discipline, accountability, and attention to detail she developed early in her career continue to shape how she runs her business today. The Director, who now leads a home healthcare company employing between 40 and 50 professionals in the United States, said success in leadership begins long before someone starts a business. According to her, young professionals should approach every assignment with honesty because they never know where the experience may lead. “Whatever your hands are found to do now, whether you are working for yourself or someone else, have that level of integrity because you never know the stage being set for you as you are learning, studying, and watching,” she said. She also cautioned young people against rushing into entrepreneurship before they have gained the necessary knowledge and experience. “There are times we are in a hurry to move and be on our own, and you may not be ready. The spotlight can be very bright, and when you are not ready, it will burn you to a crisp. Study quietly, sometimes in the shadows. You do not know what you are learning until you are put on the spot,” she advised. She further encouraged young people not to underestimate their potential, saying every individual possesses abilities that can produce remarkable results if they remain disciplined and believe in themselves. “We all have such potential in us that has been put in us by God, and the reach of our dreams is only limited by our thoughts,” she said. Reflecting on her own journey from serving as an intern in Ghana to becoming the head of a successful healthcare company in the United States, The co-Founder said she would encourage her younger self to begin the journey without hesitation because every lesson learned along the way eventually contributed to her success. Watch the full episode here:  https://www.youtube.com/live/bRBxcIXnVd8?si=ttfxmMt2sC7d5w04 About Springboard Hangout Springboard Hangout is a funducative, youth-centred show hosted by Comfort Ocran. It features inspiring stories, practical skills, and real-life experiences aimed at educating, entertaining, and equipping the next generation. The programme airs every Saturday at 4:00 PM on Joy Prime TV and on the Springboard Channel on Facebook and YouTube. Marketing & Communications Springboard Road Show Foundation

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Young Creatives Must Choose Originality Over Imitation, Designers Advise

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Young people seeking to build successful fashion brands should choose originality over imitation and remain true to their creative identity, fashion entrepreneurs Sarah Boadu and Goldyn Adams have advised. Speaking on Springboard Hangout with host Comfort Ocran, the two designers said while it is important to learn from experienced professionals, lasting success comes from creating work that reflects one’s own vision rather than copying what others are doing. Sarah Boadu, Founder and Creative Director of Self-Titled International Brand, said one of the biggest mistakes young creatives make is abandoning their originality in an attempt to follow industry trends. She revealed that trying to imitate other designers almost caused her to lose her passion for fashion. “The best times I’ve had in fashion have been when I’m not looking at anyone else,” she said. “Just be yourself. Don’t copy. Be original.” According to her, returning to her authentic style not only renewed her passion for fashion but also attracted clients who appreciated her unique approach. She encouraged young entrepreneurs to understand who they are as creatives instead of trying to replicate someone else’s success. Goldyn Adams, Fashion Designer and Travel Look Consultant, shared a similar view, adding that originality gives every brand its identity, but creativity alone is not enough to build a successful business. “Creativity gets your brand an identity, but business sustains the brand,” she said. “You can have all the talent in the world, but you need the business mindset to keep going.” Mrs. Boadu further urged entrepreneurs to understand the commercial side of their businesses by carrying out market research and listening to customers instead of relying solely on their own preferences. “You are not your own customer,” she said, explaining that business owners must identify what their target market truly wants if they hope to build sustainable brands. Miss. Adams also stressed the importance of discipline and purpose, adding that every entrepreneur will encounter difficult moments, but those who remain focused on why they started are more likely to succeed. “You definitely have to keep going when it’s tough,” she said. “Your purpose and discipline keep you going.” Both designers agreed that originality, continuous learning, business knowledge, and discipline are essential for anyone hoping to build a brand that remains relevant and successful over the long term. Watch the full episode here… About Springboard Hangout Springboard Hangout is a funducative, youth-centred show hosted by Comfort Ocran. It features inspiring stories, practical skills, and real-life experiences aimed at educating, entertaining, and equipping the next generation. The programme airs every Saturday at 4:00 PM on Joy Prime TV and on the Springboard Channel on Facebook and YouTube.

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Ghana Risks Losing Its Food Identity Unless Local Beverages Become Mainstream, Entrepreneurs Warn

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Ghana risks losing an important part of its cultural identity if local foods and beverages continue to be treated as occasional products rather than everyday consumer choices, entrepreneurs Emmanuella Safianand Caleb O. Adjah, co-founders of Zaaki Beverages, have cautioned. Speaking on Springboard Hangout with host Comfort Ocran, the entrepreneurs said younger generations are becoming increasingly disconnected from traditional Ghanaian beverages, creating both a cultural challenge and a missed economic opportunity. According to Mr. Adjah, many local drinks remain largely absent from everyday consumption despite their long history and nutritional value. He noted that products such as asana, lamugin, and tamarind-based drinks are often only available at events, making them less visible to younger consumers. “Especially for the generation to come, they do not even have an idea of some of these local beverages because they are not really exposed to them,” he said. He argued that Ghana needs to have broader conversations about local foods and beverages throughout the year rather than limiting attention to them during celebrations such as Ghana Month. The entrepreneur expressed concern that many traditional Ghanaian foods and drinks are gradually disappearing from daily life, warning that this trend could weaken cultural identity over time. “Gradually, we are losing our identity as Ghanaians and Africans, so it is one thing we want to channel, that our local beverages and local foods are the best way to go,” Mr. Adjah stated. Beyond preserving culture, he added that increased patronage of local beverages could create opportunities across the agricultural value chain by generating demand for farmers who produce raw materials such as millet and tamarind. Madam Emmanuella Safian traced the inspiration for Zaaki Beverages to her childhood in northern Ghana, where her grandmother regularly prepared traditional drinks for the family. After relocating to Accra and searching for a business idea, she revisited those experiences and identified an opportunity to transform local beverages into commercially viable products. The pair revealed that they spent several years studying ingredients, refining production processes, and collecting consumer feedback before fully entering the market. What began with fewer than 20 bottles distributed among friends has grown into a business producing about 2,000 bottles monthly. The founders attributed part of their growth to consistency and a willingness to listen to customers, stressing that maintaining product quality is essential for long-term success. Madam Emmanuella also encouraged young people interested in entrepreneurship to remain focused and patient, rather than seeking quick results.  “Consistency is the best. Just stay focused and keep pushing. You will get there,” she advised. Both entrepreneurs agreed that local beverages represent more than a business opportunity. They believe the sector can contribute to healthier consumer choices, create jobs across the value chain, and help preserve an important part of Ghana’s cultural heritage for future generations. Watch the full episode here … https://www.youtube.com/live/v-N5zt45b7I?si=NcOFarICZ2rYmBWP About Springboard Hangout Springboard Hangout is a funducative, youth-centred show hosted by Comfort Ocran. It features inspiring stories, practical skills, and real-life experiences aimed at educating, entertaining, and equipping the next generation. The programme airs every Saturday at 4:00 PM on Joy Prime TV and on the Springboard Channel on Facebook and YouTube. Marketing & Communications Springboard Road Show Foundation

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Young Entrepreneurs Must Reinvest, Not Overspend, Experts Advise

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Young entrepreneurs must resist the temptation to spend business earnings on lifestyle upgrades and instead reinvest their profits to achieve sustainable growth, skincare entrepreneur Nancy Tawiah and banking professional Roland Kwame Akafia have advised. Speaking on Springboard Hangout with host Comfort Ocran, the two experts stressed that while passion can spark a business idea, long-term success depends on discipline, financial prudence, and a commitment to growth. According to Mr. Akafia, one of the biggest mistakes young entrepreneurs make is treating business income as personal income too early in their journey. He added that many business owners become excited by early earnings and begin spending on cars, fashion, and other lifestyle expenses instead of strengthening their businesses. “You need to understand that the business money is different from your personal money,” he said, explaining that entrepreneurs who fail to reinvest often struggle to scale and sustain their ventures. He noted that social media has intensified the challenge by creating pressure for young people to imitate lifestyles they see online without understanding the years of effort and sacrifice that may have gone into building that success. The banker urged entrepreneurs to focus on budgeting, cash flow management, and disciplined reinvestment, describing these as essential building blocks for any growing enterprise. He also encouraged business owners to maintain proper financial records to help them make informed decisions and track their progress. His views were echoed by Nancy Tawiah, whose organic skincare business has grown over the past 15 years from a small passion project into an enterprise serving customers in Ghana and beyond. Madam Tawiah recounted how she started by producing skincare products for friends after developing an interest in natural wellness and herbal remedies. Rather than relying on loans, she gradually expanded the business through savings and continuous learning. Today, she produces close to 60 skincare products and says the business has enabled her to support her family, educate her children, and achieve financial independence. Reflecting on her entrepreneurial journey, she attributed her growth to focus, determination, and hard work, qualities she believes are essential for anyone seeking to build a successful business. The entrepreneur also highlighted opportunities for young people willing to turn their interests into productive ventures, noting that passion becomes profitable when combined with consistency and commitment. Both guests agreed that sustainable business growth requires patience and discipline, with Mr. Akafia identifying discipline as the defining factor that separates successful entrepreneurs from those who struggle to build lasting enterprises. He encouraged young people to cultivate the habit of saving and investing early, stressing that wealth creation often results from small, consistent decisions over time rather than quick wins. Watch the full episode here … About Springboard Hangout Springboard Hangout is a funducative, youth-centred show hosted by Comfort Ocran. It features inspiring stories, practical skills, and real-life experiences aimed at educating, entertaining, and equipping the next generation. The programme airs every Saturday at 4:00 PM on Joy Prime TV and on the Springboard Channel on Facebook and YouTube. Marketing & Communications Springboard Road Show Foundation

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One Bad Customer Experience Can Destroy a Brand, Says Richmond Asare

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Brand strategist and IT systems consultant Richmond Asare has cautioned entrepreneurs and business owners against reducing branding to logos, colours, and social media visibility, stressing that a brand is ultimately defined by reputation and consistent delivery. Speaking on Springboard Hangout with host Comfort Ocran, Mr.  Asare said many businesses mistakenly believe branding begins and ends with visual identity, while overlooking the customer experiences that shape public perception. “A brand is basically your reputation,” he said. “It is the perception people have about you, your product, or your service. If you promise something and fail to deliver, that becomes part of your brand.” According to him, businesses spend significant resources on attractive logos, taglines, and promotional materials but often neglect the operational excellence required to sustain customer trust. He added that it takes years to build a strong reputation but only a single negative customer experience to damage it. “It is very difficult to build a brand, but it is very easy to destroy it,” he noted, explaining that dissatisfied customers can quickly spread negative experiences through social media and word of mouth. The Brand strategist identified customer service, reliability, and consistency as the foundations of every successful brand, arguing that businesses must focus on what happens after attracting customers rather than merely gaining visibility. He further advised young entrepreneurs to prioritize building credibility before pursuing profits. Drawing from his own career journey, he encouraged young professionals to volunteer, offer services at reduced rates when necessary, and focus on creating a track record of results. “People want to see evidence before they can trust you,” he said. “You need to build something that proves your value.” The consultant also urged businesses facing reputational challenges to listen carefully to customer feedback instead of responding with pride or defensiveness. According to him, customers ultimately determine a brand’s position in the market. “You do not own the market. The customers decide,” he said. “Take their feedback seriously and work on it.” Mr. Asare maintained that technology and social media have made it easier than ever for businesses to understand customer sentiment, improve their products, and strengthen relationships with consumers. He added that every individual or organization already has a brand, whether intentionally built or not. “People are watching you, and people are experiencing you,” he said. “Whether you like it or not, you have a brand. Just be intentional about it,” he said. Watch the full episode here  https://www.youtube.com/live/qXYZG3gdLzw?si=YTO4qBfmkLkk1PxK About Springboard Hangout Springboard Hangout is a funducative, youth-centred show hosted by Comfort Ocran. It features inspiring stories, practical skills, and real-life experiences aimed at educating, entertaining, and equipping the next generation. The programme airs every Saturday at 4:00 PM on Joy Prime TV and on the Springboard Channel on Facebook and YouTube. Marketing & Communications Springboard Road Show Foundation

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African Brands Must Compete Globally Through Innovation and Culture, Says Gold Coast Tokota Founder

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Founder and CEO of Gold Coast Tokota, Samuel Kumi-Gyau, says African businesses must move beyond local recognition and build globally competitive brands through innovation, cultural identity, and strategic partnerships. Speaking on Springboard Hangout with host Comfort Ocran, the Ghanaian entrepreneur said that African-made products can compete confidently in international markets when businesses focus on quality, research, and strong brand positioning. According to him, Gold Coast Tokota was intentionally built to challenge perceptions about African manufacturing while helping people reconnect with African heritage through footwear. “We are changing the narrative about manufacturing in Africa,” he stated. Mr. Kum-Gyau explained that the company combines traditional African craftsmanship with modern design and sustainability, producing footwear from recycled materials such as sachet rubber, car tyres, old jeans, and plastic containers. He noted that innovation remains central to the company’s growth strategy, revealing that the brand has expanded beyond Ghana through partnerships in Nairobi, London, Dubai, Miami, and Johannesburg. “We are not just producing Ahenema,” he said. “We are producing Orthopaedic Ahenema.” The entrepreneur stressed that research has played a major role in helping the company stand out in an increasingly competitive market. Before launching the brand, he said he travelled outside Ghana to understand how international customers would perceive African footwear products. “That research changed everything about our products,” he explained. The founder further disclosed that Gold Coast Tokota currently operates multiple outlets across Accra and produces about 20 pairs of footwear daily. Beyond footwear production, he revealed plans to build a broader leather ecosystem in the future through cattle farming and local leather production to reduce dependence on imported materials. “Ten years from now, Gold Coast Tokota will not just be a footwear brand,” he said. “We want to build our own leather ecosystem.” He also highlighted the importance of building strong teams, stating that one of the biggest decisions that transformed his business was employing people who possessed expertise beyond his own. “The game changer has always been employing people who know more than me,” he said. He encouraged young entrepreneurs to focus on learning, networking, and creating value rather than chasing quick financial gains. “Money is people,” he stated. “If the right people connect to your brand, opportunities will follow.” Watch the full episode here https://www.youtube.com/live/H0k3CbTJA3M?si=qhsixDJfaGk6lkyE About Springboard Hangout Springboard Hangout is a funducative, youth-centred show hosted by Comfort Ocran. It features inspiring stories, practical skills, and real-life experiences aimed at educating, entertaining, and equipping the next generation. The programme airs every Saturday at 4:00 PM on Joy Prime TV and on the Springboard Channel on Facebook and YouTube. Marketing & Communications Springboard Road Show Foundation

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“Many Mothers Are Silently Slipping Into Depression” — Eno Quagraine Calls for More Empathy and Support for Women

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Founder and CEO of Talkative Mom LLC and Petite Elite Preschool, Eno Quagraine, has called for greater emotional support and empathy for mothers, revealing that many women silently battle postpartum depression, emotional exhaustion, and overwhelming pressure after childbirth. Speaking on Springboard Hangout with host Comfort Ocran, the Founder shared her personal experience with childbirth and postpartum struggles, describing how the emotional and physical challenges of motherhood are often overlooked in society. According to her, many women are made to believe childbirth is simply a natural process that every woman should endure without complaint, making it difficult for struggling mothers to openly speak about their pain. The CEO explained that she struggled with breastfeeding, healing after childbirth, sleep deprivation, and pressure from people around her, leaving her feeling emotionally overwhelmed. “I felt like I was failing,” she stated while recounting her experience. The motherhood advocate noted that many women in Ghana continue to suffer silently because conversations around maternal mental health remain limited and misunderstood. “You can be grateful for motherhood and still be upset about what you are going through,” she said. Drawing from conversations within her Talkative Mom community, she stated that many mothers also struggle with childcare pressures, lack of support systems, marital strain, unsolicited advice from family members, and the constant pressure to appear strong. She added that many women eventually lose themselves in the process of motherhood because they prioritize everyone else while neglecting their own well-being. According to her, this reality pushed her community to intentionally create wellness spaces where mothers can rest, reconnect with themselves, and openly discuss their struggles without fear of judgment. She urged families, health workers, friends, and society at large to become more supportive towards mothers, especially during the early stages of motherhood. “We should extend more empathy and be less judgmental,” she stressed. About Springboard Hangout Springboard Hangout is a funducative, youth-centred show hosted by Comfort Ocran. It features inspiring stories, practical skills, and real-life experiences aimed at educating, entertaining, and equipping the next generation. The programme airs every Saturday at 4:00 PM on Joy Prime TV and on the Springboard Channel on Facebook and YouTube. Marketing & Communications Springboard Road Show Foundation

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“Poor Foods Are Fueling Hormonal Problems Among Women” — Dietitian Fredricka Doku Calls for Return to Natural Ghanaian Foods

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Lead Dietitian, MediGrace Medical Centre, Madam Fredricka Doku, has linked the growing rise in hormonal and lifestyle-related health conditions among women to poor eating habits and the increasing dependence on ultra-processed foods. Speaking on Springboard Hangout with host Comfort Ocran, the dietitian explained that conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome, fibroids, endometriosis, menopause complications, and diabetes are strongly influenced by nutrition and lifestyle choices. According to her, scientific evidence increasingly points to insulin resistance and unhealthy eating as major underlying causes of many women’s health conditions. “The first line of treatment for PCOS is nutrition. It is healthy eating,” she stated. Mrs. Doku explained that many processed foods contribute to inflammation, hormonal imbalance, and excessive insulin production in the body. She added that poor nutrition affects important body processes and can significantly influence long-term health outcomes. She further disclosed that many women experience major improvements in their health after changing their diets and adopting healthier lifestyles. According to her, some patients begin seeing positive changes within weeks, including better sleep, improved menstrual cycles, reduced acne, and improved hormonal balance. The dietitian stressed that healthy eating does not necessarily require expensive or foreign meals. Instead, she encouraged Ghanaians to return to local whole foods such as millet, brown rice, beans, vegetables, fruits, and indigenous spices. She also challenged the growing obsession with trendy diets on social media, stating that many so-called anti-inflammatory diets are simply ordinary healthy Ghanaian meals presented with attractive labels. “Eating waakye with vegetables and fish with avocado is anti-inflammatory dieting,” she explained, adding that many people are paying heavily for nutrition advice that is rooted in simple local foods. Madam Fredricka also expressed concern about the eating habits of young people, particularly university students and young professionals who heavily rely on fast foods, sugary drinks, and highly processed meals because they consider them convenient and fashionable. She explained that habits such as late-night eating, skipping breakfast, and excessive intake of processed foods are increasing the risk of obesity, diabetes, hypertension, and hormonal disorders among young people. The nutrition expert additionally encouraged consumers to pay attention to food labels and ingredients before purchasing packaged foods. According to her, many processed products contain unhealthy additives, excess sugars, and artificial ingredients that contribute to inflammation and poor health. About Springboard Hangout Springboard Hangout is a funducative, youth-centred show hosted by Comfort Ocran. It features inspiring stories, practical skills, and real-life experiences aimed at educating, entertaining, and equipping the next generation. The programme airs every Saturday at 4:00 PM on Joy Prime TV and on the Springboard Channel on Facebook and YouTube. Marketing & Communications Springboard Road Show Foundation

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Discipline, Not Fame, Turns Passion into Profit in Creative Careers — Dr. Terry Bright Ofosu

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Senior Lecturer and head of Dance Studies, Department of Dance Studies, University of Ghana, and 1989 Ghana National Dance Champion, Dr. Terry Bright Ofosu, has cautioned young people against chasing fame in the creative space without first building discipline, stating that passion alone is not enough to sustain a successful career. Speaking on Springboard Hangout with host Comfort Ocran, Dr. Terry stressed that many young creatives are driven by the desire to become celebrities, yet fail to understand the level of commitment required to stand out and earn a living from their craft. He noted that “there is passion, and then there is purpose,” explaining that the difference between the two is discipline and deliberate effort. According to him, success in the creative industry, particularly in dance, depends on consistent work, personal development, and the ability to create a unique identity that separates one from others. He explained that talent may open the door, but it is disciplined practice that keeps one relevant and competitive. “You have to be able to create a kind of a niche… when you stand to perform, people will say, this is different,” he said. Dr. Terry, who combines academic training with years of street dance experience, emphasized that creatives must intentionally build themselves into what he described as a “sellable product.” He noted that visibility alone, especially through social media, does not guarantee long-term success unless it is backed by skill, consistency, and hard work. He pointed out that while social media has made it easier for young people to showcase their talents to a global audience, it has also created a false sense of achievement, where individuals expect quick recognition without putting in the required effort. “You cannot achieve that if you are indiscipline,” he cautioned. Drawing from his own journey, Dr. Terry highlighted the role of structured effort and continuous improvement in building a lasting career. He disclosed that his personal routine has always involved consistent physical training and a conscious effort to remain relevant, especially in a field that constantly evolves with trends and audience expectations. He further urged young creatives to study those who are excelling in their chosen fields and learn from their journeys rather than attempting to succeed without guidance. He warned that ignoring mentorship often leads to avoidable mistakes and delays growth. Dr. Terry also raised concerns about the lack of structured mentorship systems within the dance industry, describing it as a gap that needs urgent attention. While acknowledging the efforts of individual groups and practitioners, he noted that the absence of a unified system makes it difficult for emerging talents to access proper guidance and development pathways. About Springboard Hangout Springboard Hangout is a funducative, youth-centred show hosted by Comfort Ocran. It features inspiring stories, practical skills, and real-life experiences aimed at educating, entertaining, and equipping the next generation. The programme airs every Saturday at 4:00 PM on Joy Prime TV and on the Springboard Channel on Facebook and YouTube. Marketing & Communications Springboard Road Show Foundation